When is it time to seek professional mental health help?

Stress, worry, and low moods are part of the human experience. Everyone encounters moments of emotional strain, especially in today’s unpredictable world. Yet when these feelings persist or begin to interfere with daily life, they may signal something more serious than ordinary ups and downs. Distinguishing between everyday challenges and knowing when professional care might be needed, is an important step toward protecting your wellbeing.

If you find yourself overwhelmed by stress, unable to regulate emotions, or struggling with depression or anxiety that disrupts your daily functioning, it may be time to reach out for help. The same applies if you notice these patterns in someone close to you. Recognising the signs of a mental health condition can guide you toward timely support.

Understanding mental health

Mental health refers to our emotional state, thought patterns, and psychological balance. Mental health challenges can alter how people think, feel, and behave. Importantly, mental health and mental illness are not identical concepts. A person may experience poor mental health without having a diagnosed disorder, while someone living with a mental illness can still participate in a successful life and be important members of the community.

The most common mental health challenges are mood disorders caused by depression and anxiety. Despite lingering stigma, these issues are widespread. Around a quarter of the population at any one time can be experiencing these challenges, and around half of the population over their lifetime. These numbers highlight the importance of awareness and early intervention.

Warning signs that may warrant professional help-seeking

1. Stress becomes overwhelming

Stress is the body’s natural reaction to perceived threats, triggering the fight-or-flight response. While stress can arise from events such as divorce, illness, financial strain, or workplace pressure, prolonged stress takes a toll on physical health. Headaches, digestive problems, muscle pain, and a weakened immune system are common consequences. The body often signals when it’s time to slow down.

2. Anxiety interferes with functioning

Anxiety shares similarities with stress, often presenting as rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, or nervousness. Typically, these symptoms fade once the stressful event passes. However, anxiety can persist even when no immediate threat exists, leading to constant worry and impaired functioning. Anxiety can stop people from fully living their lives, mainly through avoidance of whatever is causing the anxiety, which is counterproductive.

3. Depression becomes persistent

Depression is more than sadness—it is a disorder that disrupts brain function and daily living. Symptoms include withdrawal from social activities, sleep disturbances, appetite changes, physical aches, and feelings of guilt or hopelessness. Enjoyment of previously meaningful activities often disappears. While occasional low moods are normal, ongoing depression requires evaluation by a professional who can determine whether treatment such as therapy or medication is appropriate.

It can be difficult to judge whether your feelings are temporary or signs of a deeper issue. Only trained professionals can provide an accurate assessment. The bottom line is that if your symptoms are impacting your daily functioning, whether that is through avoiding people and situations, and having to change major aspects of your life to fit around your symptoms, it’s probably time to seek external help. One thing that I often hear from people is that they do not want to “take up space” from someone who might need it more. The truth is, that most mental health professionals do not want to have all “high level” clients, we actually want some clients with whom we can set goals, work on values, or to help make a big decision. It is not just for mental illness that you may see one of us. We will tell you if we cannot see you.

Finding the right support

The first step is often speaking with your GP who can refer you to a mental health specialist. Treatment may involve therapy, medication, lifestyle adjustments, or a combination of approaches. Because each person’s needs differ, finding the right plan is crucial.

Therapy can be especially beneficial. Counsellors work with clients to set goals, develop coping strategies, restore balance and improve resilience. Video sessions also make it easier to connect with specialists who match your specific concerns, especially when you are isolated on farm.

For a good starting point with trained and registered counsellors, check out www.nzac.org.nz and go to “find a counsellor”.

Kathryn Wright

Registered counsellor

www.kathrynwright.co.nz